Student Handbook — Computer Use

Student Handbook

Students at WSU are provided with central computing resources for communication and networking. Abuse of the University's computing system is strictly forbidden. The following guidelines are intended to clarify appropriate use of computers, networks, and computing facilities. Refer to WAC 504-25-085.

Legitimate Use of Computers, Networks, and Facilities To Top

  • Teaching and Learning
  • Research
  • E-mail
  • Accessing the Internet

Use of computers, networks, and computing facilities for academic purposes is a privilege for students. Improper use can result in possible referral for conduct code violation(s). It is your responsibility to know the rules.

Legal Guidelines To Top

All WSU resources must be used in strict accordance with local, state, and federal laws. These laws cover areas such as illegal access to computer systems, networks, and files; copyright violations; harassment issues.

  • DO NOT copy and/or use software, images, music, or other intellectual property unless appropriate permission has been secured. Educational institutions are not exempt from the laws covering copyrights. Most software, images, music, and files available for use on computers at WSU are protected by federal copyright laws. Federal copyright and license protections laws are to be obeyed.
  • DO NOT make copies of University software for use on non-University machines unless appropriate University permission is secured.
  • DO NOT transmit inappropriate images, sounds, or messages to others that might reasonably be considered to be harassing. (Harassment is defined as the creation of an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or educational environment.)
  • DO NOT attempt to break into University systems, networks, or user accounts (known as "hacking"), or use University systems or networks as a staging ground for attempts to break into other systems or networks.
  • DO NOT use University resources for partisan political purposes, such as using e-mail to circulate advertising for political candidates.
  • DO NOT use University computers for private business activities. (Using your University account to offer goods or services for sale.)
  • Unauthorized use of software, images, music, or files is regarded as a serious matter, and any such use is without the consent of Washington State University. If abuse of computer software, images, music, or files occurs, those responsible for such abuse may be held legally accountable.

E-mail Guidelines To Top

E-mail must meet the same standard that is applied in the use of campus telephones and campus mail.

  • DO NOT send e-mail to someone who has requested that you not do so.
  • DO NOT create, send or forward chain letters (messages that are forwarded many times to people who have not solicited the information). Sending e-mail to large groups can degrade the system; if done with malicious intent it is considered "hacking."
  • DO NOT flood another system, network, or user account with e-mail.
  • DO NOT send e-mail to individuals or groups who you could not reasonably expect to welcome e-mail from you. If you have any doubt, ask their permission before adding them to any list.
  • DO NOT obscure the true identity of the sender of e-mail or forge e-mail messages.
  • DO NOT subscribe anyone to an e-mail list except with the individual's permission.
  • DO NOT use campus computing facilities to communicate information of an abusive or obscene nature or which discriminates against an individual or individuals on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. (People differ in what they consider offensive, obscene, or discriminatory, or unwanted, so a basic consideration of feelings and rights should guide you.)

Other Responsible Use Issues To Top

Campus computers, networks and computing facilities may not be used to commit or facilitate academic dishonesty, or to use copyright material improperly. Using the Internet makes access to public documents easier, but your work should still be your own. Always cite others where appropriate. Remember, too, that public distribution of copyrighted work, including graphics, pictures, and music requires the permission of the copyright holder. Posting copyrighted material is illegal and could result in prosecution or lawsuit.

Account Guidelines To Top

  • Once you create a WSU ID giving you access to computing resources at WSU, you are responsible for any and all use made of those services with your ID.
  • Choose a password that cannot easily be guessed. (Avoid names, parts of social security numbers, birth dates, etc.)
  • Change your password frequently and protect it.
  • Immediately report any suspected unauthorized use of your account by sending an e-mail to wsuvhelp@vancouver.wsu.edu
  • Never share your login name or password

Consequences of Illegal or Unethical Actions To Top

Violations of computer and network use policies are subject to loss of access to computing resource as well as to University disciplinary and/or legal action. When a report of misuse is received, the following steps will be taken to protect systems, networks and the user community:

  1. The suspected accounts may be suspended immediately pending the outcome of any investigation.
  2. The files and data on the account may be inspected for evidence.

The violation will be reported to the appropriate authorities:

  • Any university policy violations to the Office of Student Affairs, the appropriate instructor, department chair, or supervisor.
  • Illegal activity to Clark County Sheriff's Office, WSU Vancouver Police, the Attorney General, FBI, Internet Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) and other network and systems administrators.

Violations are subject to any and all of the following:

  • Loss of WSU computing and networking access
  • University disciplinary actions as prescribed in the University's Standards of Conduct for Students
  • Civil proceedings
  • Criminal prosecution

(The WAC codes contained in the Student Handbook do not include all the rules that apply to students. A complete listing may be obtained at the Office of Student Affairs, VSSB 200.)